Turner mastered classical ballet technique in very few years. He was invited to perform with a number of fledgling British ballet companies, becoming known for his virtuosity and exciting stage presence.
His mother, who had interests in the performing arts, supported his decision to begin ballet training in 1925 at the relatively late age of 16.
Engaged to appear as the old Marquis di Luca in the 1962 revival of Massine's The Good-Humoured Ladies, he died of a heart attack on the way to his dressing room after a rehearsal at the Royal Opera House.
Upon retirement, he taught at Sadler's Wells Ballet School, worked as ballet master of the Covent Garden Opera Ballet, and appeared occasionally as a guest artist with Sadler's Wells Ballet.
He studied first with Alfred Haines in Manchester. Blessed with a lithe, muscular physique and innate musicality, he quickly showed an aptitude for classical ballet.